turn the tide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "turn the tide" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
It is often used as a metaphor for when a situation or trend is reversed, typically for the better. For example: "The new advertising campaign was just enough to turn the tide and get our sales up again."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Politics

Environmental Issues

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That is unlikely to turn the tide.

The Economist

In retrospect, Cuomo helped turn the tide.

The New York Times

I guess that might turn the tide.

The New York Times

How to turn the tide?

The New York Times - Magazine

Perhaps this result can turn the tide.

The Guardian - Sport

Very small things can turn the tide.

The Guardian - Sport

We can turn the tide against tuberculosis.

The Guardian

There are few sure-fire ways to turn the tide.

The New York Times

The Post-its did not turn the tide.

The New York Times

The approach helped turn the tide of insurgency in Iraq.

The New York Times

There's no way to turn the tide in your favor".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "turn the tide" when you want to emphasize a significant shift or reversal in a situation, especially after a period of decline or disadvantage. It's particularly effective when discussing trends, conflicts, or competitive scenarios.

Common error

Avoid using "turn the tide" for minor adjustments or temporary fluctuations. This phrase implies a substantial, lasting reversal of a prevailing trend, not just a brief reprieve.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "turn the tide" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase. It describes the action of reversing a negative trend or situation. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correctness and usability, underscoring its role in conveying significant change.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Sport

15%

Politics

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "turn the tide" is a common and correct idiomatic expression used to describe reversing a negative trend or situation. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it functions effectively across various contexts, from news and media to sports and politics. Its neutral register makes it versatile for both formal and informal communications. When using this phrase, remember that it implies a significant, lasting reversal, not just a minor adjustment. Alternatives like "reverse the trend" or "shift the momentum" can be considered for subtle differences in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

turn the tables

Implies reversing a situation where one party had an advantage over another.

reverse the trend

Focuses specifically on reversing an established pattern or direction.

shift the momentum

Emphasizes changing the driving force or impetus behind a situation.

alter the course

Implies a significant change in the direction or progression of events.

change the game

Suggests introducing a new element or strategy that fundamentally alters the dynamics.

tip the balance

Highlights a slight adjustment that leads to a decisive shift in advantage or outcome.

gain an advantage

Indicates acquiring a beneficial position after a period of disadvantage.

make a comeback

Suggests recovering from a setback or period of decline to achieve renewed success.

stem the flow

Focuses on stopping or impeding a continuous outpouring or progression.

correct the imbalance

Addressing a disparity or inequity so as to restore equilibrium

FAQs

How can I use "turn the tide" in a sentence?

You can use "turn the tide" to describe a significant reversal in a situation. For example, "The new strategy helped to "turn the tide" against declining sales."

What can I say instead of "turn the tide"?

You can use alternatives like "reverse the trend", "shift the momentum", or "alter the course" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "turning the tide"?

Yes, "turning the tide" is the gerund or present participle form of the phrase and is grammatically correct. It can be used in progressive tenses or as a noun. For example, "Turning the tide" required a comprehensive new strategy.

What's the difference between "turn the tide" and "turn the tables"?

"Turn the tide" refers to reversing a general trend or situation, while "turn the tables" specifically means reversing a situation where one party had an advantage over another.